Thinking about investing in a forklift? Great choice! But this is more than a practical decision – it’s a strategic move that can significantly impact your operations, efficiency, and bottom line. Whether you’re navigating narrow warehouse aisles, managing outdoor construction sites, or handling specialised materials, the forklift you choose needs to align perfectly with your industry’s demands.
That’s why we’ve compiled a guide to walk you through the process of choosing the best forklift for your industry. We look at key factors, discuss the top forklift brands, and provide insights into different forklift types to help you make an informed decision.
Where Do You Start Your Forklift-Choosing Quest?
Your choice of material handling equipment is tied to three factors:
- The tasks you want to complete, which in turn dictate
- The type of forklift you need, and
- The forklift brand or manufacturer
Let’s investigate each factor in more detail.
1. How Do Your Desired Tasks Influence Your Forklift Choice?
Forklifts aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. These machines have different specs and capabilities. Some are manufactured for a specific purpose, while others are more versatile. So, to choose a forklift that’s aligned with your industry’s needs, you must consider what characteristics the forklift must possess to complete the task. Plus, you must also take the environment into account (as your task won’t happen in isolation).
The following factors will guide you in choosing a forklift that ticks all your boxes:
- Load capacity – Determine the maximum weight you need to lift. Choose a forklift that can safely handle your heaviest loads.
- Lift height – Consider the maximum height you need to reach in your facility.
- Operating environment – Will the forklift be used indoors, outdoors, or both? This will influence your choice between electric and internal combustion models (more detail below).
- Aisle width – Measure your warehouse aisles to ensure the forklift can maneuver effectively.
- Fuel type – Electric, diesel, or gas-powered? Each has advantages depending on your operational needs and environmental considerations (more detail below).
- Attachments – Do you need specific forklift attachments for your operations? Ensure the forklift you choose is compatible with the necessary attachments.
- Operator comfort – Consider ergonomics and ease of use to ensure operator productivity and reduce fatigue.
2. What Are the Different Types of Forklifts Available?
Now that you have your needs straight, you can start filtering your forklift choice via type. The main forklift types are:
Electric Forklifts
Electric forklifts offer zero emissions and quiet operation. This makes them ideal for indoor environments. For example, warehouses and food processing facilities.
Internal Combustion Forklifts
Powered by diesel or gas, these forklifts are built for outdoor use and heavy-duty applications. They handle rugged terrains and large loads with ease.
Reach Trucks
Reach trucks are designed for narrow aisle operations. They’re perfect for warehouses aiming to maximise vertical storage space without compromising maneuverability.
Pallet Trucks
Pallet trucks excel at moving pallets over short distances, making them indispensable in warehouses and distribution centers with high-volume inventory handling.
3. What Are the Best Forklift Brands in the UK Market?
Like many purchases, your choice might be guided by the presence of well-established truck brands or customer recommendations. These are the leading forklift manufacturers that dominate the UK market. Each brand offers a wide range of forklift products and material handling solutions:
Hyundai
Hyundai is known for its innovative approach, offering a versatile range of forklift trucks designed to meet the needs of various industries. Their focus on advanced technology and user-friendly designs makes them a popular choice for indoor and outdoor applications.
Linde
Linde stands out for its high-performance forklifts that combine power with precision. Renowned for their energy efficiency and ergonomic design, Linde forklifts are ideal for industries looking to optimise productivity and operator comfort.
Combilift
Combilift, including its Aisle Master range, specialises in space-saving forklifts designed for narrow aisle operations. Their innovative multi-directional handling solutions make them a top choice for businesses looking to maximise storage capacity in tight spaces.
Toyota
Toyota forklifts are synonymous with reliability and long-lasting performance. Known for their robust build and advanced safety features, they’re trusted across industries that require consistent, high-capacity lifting solutions.
Hyster-Yale
Hyster-Yale brings together decades of expertise in producing heavy-duty forklifts. With a reputation for durability and strength, their forklifts are built to handle the toughest industrial environments.
Jungheinrich
Jungheinrich excels in warehouse automation and electric forklift solutions. Their commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology makes them a frontrunner for businesses aiming to enhance efficiency while reducing their environmental impact.
How Do You Choose Between New and Used Forklifts?
Once you’ve settled on the task, type, and brand, you still have one choice before acquiring your forklift: New, used, or hired?
Buying a New Forklift
Pros:
- New forklifts come equipped with the latest innovations, offering improved efficiency, safety features, and operator comfort.
- A new forklift typically includes a full warranty, reducing the risk of unexpected repair costs.
- Investing in a new forklift ensures a longer operational lifespan with fewer initial maintenance needs.
Cons:
- The initial purchase price is significantly higher than used models. This may strain budgets, especially for smaller businesses.
- Like most equipment, forklifts depreciate quickly, which can impact resale value if you plan to upgrade in a few years.
Buying a Used Forklift
Pros:
- Used forklifts are much more affordable, making them a cost-effective solution for businesses with tighter budgets.
- Used models are often ready for quick delivery, reducing downtime when you need equipment fast.
Cons:
- Older forklifts may require more frequent repairs and maintenance, potentially leading to higher long-term costs.
- Used forklifts may not have a comprehensive warranty, leaving buyers responsible for repair expenses.
Hiring a Forklift
Pros:
- Hiring forklifts allows businesses to adjust their fleet size to match fluctuating operational demands, especially during peak seasons.
- Rentals often include the latest forklifts with cutting-edge technology, providing a modern solution without the commitment of ownership.
- The hire company typically handles maintenance and repairs, freeing up resources and reducing operational costs.
Cons:
- While cost-effective for short-term needs, long-term hire can become more expensive than purchasing outright.
- Rental forklifts may not always be tailored to your specific operational requirements, limiting flexibility in specialised tasks.
Whether you’re buying new, opting for a used model, or hiring for short-term flexibility, TAG Forklift Trucks offers solutions tailored to your budget and operational needs.
How Can You Ensure Operator Safety and Compliance?
Finally, once you receive your new forklift truck, you need an operator to drive it. Forklift operators must be well-trained to handle the equipment safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
This means investing in comprehensive operator training. This training should cover the safe operation of the forklift, proper handling techniques, and how to identify and mitigate potential hazards in the workplace. In addition to initial training, you should provide ongoing refresher courses to keep operators updated on best practices and any regulation changes.
Levelling Up Your Material Handling Game
Choosing the best forklift for your industry requires carefully considering various factors, including your specific operational needs, budget, and long-term goals. By understanding the different types of forklifts available, considering top manufacturers, and evaluating factors such as electric vs. internal combustion models, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your material handling efficiency.
Partner with TAG Forklift Trucks
TAG Forklift Trucks offers a wide range of new and used forklifts from leading brands and comprehensive services, including forklift hire, servicing, repairs, and attachments. Our team of experts can help you navigate the selection process and find the perfect forklift solution for your industry. Contact us today to discuss your material handling needs.
